2 Years Later !

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It seems impossible that it has been nearly a year since my last update on this site. I guess I use Facebook for frequent small updates, typically via phone pics and whatnot. Well, I guess it is time to give a proper update …

Late last year I started dabbling in 5K’s for fun. I ran a few, but to be honest running down a straight road for miles makes me feel a bit like a lemming. I then saw an ad that would forever change my view of what a 5K actually could be. The ad was for an “offroad 5K” that has military grade obstacles, fire, mud, barbed wire, and more thrown in to make things a bit more interesting. Aptly dubbed “The Warrior Dash” you are greeted with a medal and a huge beer at the finish line. What more could you ask for ?

After talking one of my best buddies into attending the event with me and putting in a solid top 20% effort, I was hooked. I began looking for other similar events that were within driving distance that would test me both mentally and physically and be something more then the vanilla weekend 5k I was growing accustomed to. Below is my complete run down from 2011:

- Mud Athlon – Most obstacles of any adventure race I have done. Tough to pace due to tons of natural terrain variations. A really good time overall and great finishers medal. Highly recommended – 5 stars

- Rebel Race – Small race in Indiana. A lot of corn field running. Obstacles were run by military, so that was cool. Overpriced and not sure if I would go back. Crap medal and t-shirt – 3 stars

- Swamp Stomp – Was it’s inaugural event, with minimal turn out. Some great obstacles but could be greatly improved for next year. The final mile was all corn field. Was freezing and tough though – 3 stars

- Urban Athlon – A 10 mile race throughout Chicago. Every mile or so is another mini-obstacle course to complete. This was a huge event put on by Mens Health Magazine & Gatoraid. It included Navy Peer and 1 mile of stairs inside Soldier Field. This is the furthest I have ever run and one of the most memorable events I have ever competed in. My buddies and I will be running this annually, so you are invited to come with !

In short, it was one heck of a year getting out there and competing in all of these events. The days of wrestling and martial arts may be long gone, but it is still nice to get out and test yourself. Even more important then competition is spending time with friends and family and creating new memories along the way. I am already looking forward to what 2012 holds, so if you are interested just let me know. Thanks for reading !